Temporary Increase in Borrowing Authority for National Flood Insurance Program

Floor Speech

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Mr. RUNYAN. Madam Speaker, I thank Chairman Garrett for yielding some time.

Madam Speaker, it's been 68 days since Hurricane Sandy devastated the Northeast and over 2 months of suffering for my constituents. While it is unfortunately long overdue, I'm pleased that we're finally here acting to help the people of New Jersey recover. This hurricane has caused billions of dollars in damage, uprooting individuals and families from their homes, forcing businesses to close and resulting in job loss and revenue loss.

My constituents need help now recovering. I've witnessed firsthand the devastation in places like Seaside Heights, Normandy Beach, Lavallette and Silverton, and I can honestly say that these places look like war zones after the storm. Whole communities have been wiped out.

Governor Christie estimated the damage in New Jersey to be over $36 billion. I applaud his swift action on Sandy recovery and join him and all local, State, and Federal leaders in New Jersey to ensure that all relief funds get to New Jersey families and businesses as quickly as possible. This includes adequate funding for the flood insurance program we are voting on today, and I urge passage of this essential legislation.

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